Warm, hearty, and packed with nourishing vegetables, Cabbage Soup is the kind of meal that feeds both body and soul. Whether you’re craving comfort food on a chilly evening, looking for something light and healthy, or simply want to make a big pot of something satisfying, this soup delivers every time. It’s simple to make, full of flavor, and perfect for meal prep — plus, it’s budget-friendly and uses everyday ingredients you probably already have at home.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Wholesome and comforting: Light yet filling, with layers of savory flavor.
Easy to make: All in one pot — minimal prep, no fuss.
Healthy and nourishing: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Customizable: You can add meat, beans, or extra veggies to suit your taste.
🧺 Ingredients
Serves 6–8:
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6–7 cups)
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced
2 celery stalks, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or fresh, chopped tomatoes)
6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon oregano
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth of flavor)
Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Optional Add-ins:
1 cup chopped potatoes or turnips
1 cup green beans or zucchini
1 cup cooked shredded chicken or sausage for extra protein
🔪 Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables:
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. - Add garlic and tomato paste:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. If using tomato paste, add it now and stir for 1 minute to deepen the flavor. - Add cabbage and tomatoes:
Add the chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes (with their juice). Stir to combine everything well. - Add the broth and seasonings:
Pour in the broth, then add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, oregano, and the bay leaf. Stir and bring the soup to a boil. - Simmer until tender:
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended. - Taste and adjust:
Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. - Serve hot:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
🍽 Serving Suggestions
For a hearty meal: Pair it with warm bread, cornbread, or a grilled cheese sandwich.
For extra protein: Add cooked sausage, ham, or shredded chicken.
For a lighter option: Enjoy it as-is with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
🍅 Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the cabbage — it should be tender but not mushy.
Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end to balance the flavors.
For a spicy kick, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Make a big batch — this soup tastes even better the next day!
🧊 Storage & Reheating
Storage: Cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
💬 Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Soup is proof that simple ingredients can make something truly special. It’s cozy, satisfying, and full of natural flavor — a dish that brings comfort with every spoonful. Whether you’re watching your diet, feeling under the weather, or just want a wholesome homemade meal, this soup has you covered.
It’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again — because once you taste it, you
